Christian character traits alone qualify as true character traits, being rooted in the absolute moral values of God's Holy Word. While the humanist embraces moral relativism, stating that individual value systems may differ without being wrong, God's Word makes it very clear that there are absolute, objective standards on which to base character. We must adhere to these standards alone if we endeavor to build character at home or become engaged in character education.

Galatians 5:22 and 23 shows us why character traits are the proper possession of Christians. They are fruit that comes from God's Holy Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Character is moral excellence, and Chapter 4 of Philippians urges such excellence, listing Christian character traits among which are firmness, harmony, helpfulness, rejoicing, forbearance, thanksgiving, peace, honesty, integrity, purity, etc.

Christian character traits are normal for Christians, but not automatic. Colossians 1:9-11 shows us the apostle praying that the Colossians will bear fruit "in every good work (character)." The words following these show the only way to do that: "increasing in the knowledge of God." Why? Because God is perfect, and the closer we draw to Him, the more we mirror that perfection.

Christian character traits are all manifested in the life of Christ, man's model of moral excellence, and any accurate list will spring from reflection on Him who, from youth, grew in favor with God and man. He never gave a bulleted or numbered list, but He was a man of character, and it is as we deepen our acquaintance with Him that we deepen our knowledge of character